Case Study: Country Club Drive Residence

Words: Todd O'ConnellA single-family, private residence in Port Washington, New York was a winner in the 2016 Brick in Architecture Awards. Working closely with the principals from the firm of Todd O'Connell Architects, the owners embarked on a quest to locate the perfect brick. The Atlanta Blend HMOS from Glen-Gery Corporation provided the look that the homeowners envisioned. Then, instead of simply being an afterthought, the mortar color was painstakingly chosen because it enhances the brick's color. Brick Veneer Requirements For brick veneer that is designed for use in residences, there are specific requirements that must be met. These are located within the IBC, and contain language similar to what is found in the IBC. Some of the particulars that are addressed include the air space minimum width, the location of flashing and the method in which the brickwork is supported in regards to the corbeled courses. Special Techniques Used During Masonry Work This residence contains numerous arches -- each which required a unique technique to ensure that it performed as expected. For example, the self-supporting arches located at the rear of the home had a minimum height and rise requirement. The project's arches had to be laid on formwork and fully supported after being installed. This temporary process provided the time needed for the mortar to cure. Once they did so, the arches were able to sustain their own weight, as well as the weight of the brickwork located above them. Unique Pattern Creation This home's chimney boasts a "herringbone" pattern, which required that the brick be laid out on an angle. Above a rear terrace, the brick was laid at a horizontal 45-degree angle. This provided the desired visual "dogtooth" coursing effect. The look of Colonial-era brickwork is achieved by using a grapevine joint profile. When this profile is used, a center joint line is produced. This serves to level the lines of the bond while still accommodating the natural irregularities of each individual brick.
Words: Masonry Magazine Photos: Todd O'Connell
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